Residents of Matongo Village in Tanzania's Mara Region are calling for a fair and transparent valuation of their properties, which may be affected by the expansion of the Barrick North Mara Gold Mine. The residents, particularly those from Nyamilama and Masangula hamlets, are concerned that the compensation for their land, houses, trees, and other properties should reflect their actual value. They emphasize the need for accurate identification and valuation of their assets before the affected areas are surrendered for mining activities.
Nyamilama resident Pius Ijukaine stressed the importance of accuracy and fairness in the valuation exercise, which was progressing well as of September 21, 2026. He owns a farm with eucalyptus trees and expects them to be included in the valuation as they contribute to his family's livelihood. Ijukaine also urged Barrick North Mara to consider providing alternative land for residents who may need to relocate due to the mine's expansion.
Another Nyamilama resident, Elias Daniel, echoed Ijukaine's sentiments, emphasizing that compensation should reflect the value of both the land and assets located on it. He owns land with eucalyptus and mango trees, which he expects to be properly identified and valued during the exercise. Daniel highlighted that many residents depend on their land for farming and other income-generating activities, making it crucial for the compensation process to consider the potential impact on their livelihoods.
In Masangula, resident Zubeida Saidi called for fair compensation that matches the value of the land being surrendered. She emphasized the need for transparency in the valuation process and clear information on the next stages, including how land and assets would be valued and how compensation payments would be made. Saidi believes that transparency will help affected residents understand how their properties were valued and the amount of compensation they can expect.
Nyamilama Hamlet chairman Wambura Chacha urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with local leaders and valuation experts to ensure the exercise is conducted in accordance with established laws and procedures. He also reminded residents to comply with a government directive against undertaking new construction or activities related to the project in the affected areas while the valuation process continues. Chacha emphasized that involving residents at different stages of the process will improve understanding and help prevent grievances.
Residents stressed the importance of regular communication among affected families, local leaders, and those overseeing the exercise to address concerns before they escalate into disputes. They expect a transparent valuation process that recognizes the value of their land and other assets and ensures those who eventually relocate are adequately compensated to rebuild their lives elsewhere. The residents are seeking fair compensation to avoid disputes with the mine.
The Barrick North Mara Gold Mine's expansion has raised concerns among residents, who are demanding a fair deal. The mine's operations have been a significant contributor to Tanzania's economy, with the company partnering with Twiga to inject Sh10.1 trillion into the country's economy in 2025. However, residents are focused on ensuring they receive fair compensation for their properties and livelihoods.
Key points
- Residents demand fair and transparent valuation of their properties ahead of Barrick North Mara Gold Mine's expansion.
- Compensation should reflect the actual value of land, houses, trees, and other properties.
- Residents seek transparency and clear information on the valuation process and compensation payments.
